If you’re a regular reader, you know I have spent the last few years decluttering and getting rid of unwanted items. At Christmas, the last thing I want or need is more stuff. Today’s post considers why gifts of experiences instead of things will likely be a hit with most people. Plus, 12 ideas for experiences that will be sure to please just about anyone on your Christmas list.

This post was originally published in December 2020 and updated in October 2023.

Millennials had it right all along

We’ve been hearing for years that millennials would rather spend money on experiences than material possessions. A 2019 study by advertising agency Momentum Worldwide showed they are not alone. The study found that 76% of all consumers would rather spend their money on experiences than material possessions. That’s a 200% increase since 2012.

For me, the shift away from possessions toward experiences is a refreshing change. I hope it reflects a societal trend toward minimalism and a shift in priorities toward things that really matter.

A favourite Christmas memory

In 2011, we surprised our daughters at Christmas with the gift of a Disney Cruise. They were 10 and 7 at the time. We bought them practical items they would need for travelling and we gave them a letter from Mickey Mouse saying he couldn’t wait to see them on spring break.

As I shared in The magic and wonder of Disney vacations, that Disney Cruise was the best vacation we’ve ever had as a family. My daughters still rave about what a great time they had.

Why experiences are better than things

Over the years, I’ve looked for opportunities to gift experiences not only to my daughters but to other people on my list.

For me, there are 5 main reasons why experiences make better gifts than things:

• They give us something to look forward to. Unlike a physical gift which is often opened and soon forgotten, putting a future experience on our calendar gives us something to get excited about.
• Value of shared time together. Our loved ones need our presence not our presents. Spending time together will always be more valuable than any physical goods.
• The memories you make together will last a lifetime. Your loved ones will cherish the memories from a shared experience long after material goods wear out or are tossed aside for the next shiny new thing.
• Every experience gives you the opportunity to learn something new and expand your horizons.
• And last but not least, there’s no clutter involved to make you feel guilty years from now when you’re faced with cleaning up or downsizing.

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12 ideas of experiences you can gift

Gifting experiences is more challenging in 2020 because of the pandemic restrictions. But, I think we all agree that this year we need things to look forward to more than ever. With a little creativity, you can give the gift of experiences.

Here are some suggestions.

1. Trips and vacations. This doesn’t have to be as expensive or elaborate as a cruise. It could be a simple as a weekend or overnight getaway.
2. Tickets for a theatre performance, concert or sporting event.  
3. A gift certificate for a nice dinner out or an invitation to treat someone to dinner at a restaurant of their choosing.  
4. A wine or beer tasting experience at a local winery or craft brewery.
5. Season passes to a national or provincial/state park.
6. A home movie or game night gift pack with gourmet snacks.
7. Subscription to a streaming service like Netflix, Disney+ or Spotify.
8. Coupons to be exchanged for fun activities together—a nature hike, day at the beach or just a pyjama day.
9. A spa experience.
10. Amusement park tickets.
11. Movie passes.
12. Plans to take a class together. Cooking or craft classes are always fun.

When choosing experiences, don’t forget they also have an environmental impact. Read 6 ways to reduce the environmental cost of experiences for ideas on how to make wise choices.

Put your thinking cap on

This holiday season, give your loved ones the gift of time together. If you put your thinking cap on, I’m sure you can come up with ideas for everyone on your list.

Do you have other ideas of experiences you could gift this Christmas? Tell us about them below.